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LOCALS URGED TO REMIND KIDS NOT TO PICK UP SYRINGES
Horror as children find needles in Clonee estate MARK O’BRIEN
LOCAL parents are being urged to remind their children to never pick up needles after syringes were found in a Clonee estate last weekend. Cllr David McGuinness (IND) shared photos of a stash of syringes that were found by a group of children in Hunters Run. The needles were removed by the Blanchardstown Drug Task Force. Full Story on Page 5
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TRANSPORT | CLLR WILL BE ‘WATCHING CLOSELY’ TO MAKE SURE SERVICE IS BENEFICIAL
Call on new bus operator to maintain routes’ standards MARK O’BRIEN CLLR Roderic O’Gorman has called on the new operators of orbital bus routes to maintain the current levels of service on the routes. The National Transport Authority (NTA) recently selected British company Go-Ahead as the preferred bidder for the contract to operate the routes. Around a third of the routes pass through the Dublin 15 area and Cllr O’Gorman said that he hoped there would be no drop in the standard of service. “It is now vital that both the NTA and the Government ensures that there is no deterioration of the standard of services on the tendered routes,” he said. “The real test of this tendering process is whether services for
British company Go-Ahead is to take over privatised Dublin Bus routes
commuters actually improve on these routes. “Around a third of the routes that will be operated by GoAhead pass through the Dublin 15 area (17a, 76a, 220, 236, 238, 239, 270). “While most of the journeys are orbital, rather than
going directly into the city centre, they provide a vital link between the outer suburbs and key locations such as the Blanchardstown Town Centre, Dublin City University, Beaumount Hospital and Connolly Hospital. “They are especially impor-
tant for students and elderly people.” Go-Ahead are one of the largest bus operators in London. The company was awarded the tender to take over 23 Dublin Bus routes, as well as a new service that will run from Citywest to UCD.
The move is the biggest shakeup to Dublin’s bus services since Dublin Bus was established 30 years ago. It will not be revealed how much Go-Ahead paid for the routes until a contract standstill period has passed. Cllr O’Gorman said that he will “watching closely” to make sure that the new service was beneficial to commuters. “As a daily user of the 17a, I’ll be watching closely to ensure there is no decrease in the frequency or reliability of the service provided to commuters,” he said. “If they do not, then the National Transport Authority will have to intervene.” Go-Ahead will begin operating the routes from November 2018.
Garda warning: ‘Be alert of rental scams’ GARDAI are advising people to be wary of rental scams, particularly at this time of year when students are returning to college. Gardai say that while rental scams occur throughout the year, there is usually a spike at this time of year due to a new generation of 3rd level students seeking accommodation. The scams fall into three broad categories; the scammer claims to be out of the country and can’t show you the property and requests a deposit, the scammer is living at the property and shows a number of people around, gets a deposit from several people and disappears with the money, or the transaction appears normal until the renter finds that the keys don’t work and the landlord has disappeared. There are a number of steps prospective tenants can take to ensure that they are not scammed. Ideally people should only do business with established bon-fide rental agencies and should always meet a prospective landlord in the accommodation to be rented. Prospective tenants should ask for photo identification of the landlord or letting agent. Cheques or bank drafts should be used to pay the deposit and tenants should ensure that keys fit and open the door prior to payment of deposit. The Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) rent index provides students with important benchmark information and is an authoritative guide as to the actual rents being charged by landlords adjacent to all Universities, ITs and other Third Level colleges. Further information can be found over at www.rtb.ie.
24 August 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 3
HISTORY MMA KING IN THE
WITH only a few days until MMA king Conor McGregor takes on the undefeated Floyd Mayweather in Las Vegas, Boylesports has created a fantastic poster to promote the Notorious knocking-out ‘Money Mayweather’, and put it above the iconic Karma Stone pub. The banner appeared on the corner of Kevin and Wexford Sts last weekend, with the caption: “They say he has no chance, but we like his odds.” Mayweather is the overwhelming favourite, but the Dubliner is believed to pose a substantial threat as punters rally behind Conor to wipe Floyd’s unbeaten record.
Meanwhile Huddersfield based tailor, Owen Scott Bespoke, have the market sewn up after they annouced they will be stocking UFC Champion Conor McGregor’s controversial suit with the phrase “F*** You” woven into the pinstripe. The Irish fighter wore the suit – which is made from cloth designed and manufactured in Huddersfield - when he confronted opponent Floyd Mayweather at the press conference before their much-anticipated fight (left).
WHERE TO SEE THE FIGHT
Vue cinema at the Liffey Valley will show the bout between The Notorious and ‘Mayweather on two of their screens. Tickets €20 for Adults and €17.50. Doors open from 11:45pm. Bluebell United are hosting a party for the fight. €50 admission entitles you to an open bar from 11pm onwards. Also Crumlin Boxing Club, where a young Conor stepped into a boxing club for the first time aged 12, is set to screen the mega-fight.
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FINGAL | INITIATIVE OFFERS ALTERNATIVE SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL MODE TO USERS
Council launches a pilot car sharing scheme with GoCar MARK O’BRIEN FINGAL County Council and GoCar have launched a pilot carsharing scheme in Dublin 15. The scheme was launched in response to the success of car-sharing initiatives in Dublin City and Cork, which has seen increased demand from local residents and businesses. GoCar users can book cars online or via the
app for as little as an hour, then unlock with their phone or GoCard; the keys are in the car, with fuel, insurance and city parking all included. Rates start from €8 per hour, with 50km of driving included on each trip.
Launch Speaking at the launch, Mayor of Fingal councillor Mar y McCamley said: “Fingal County Council
welcomes the roll out of GoCar in the county as part of the pilot Car Club. “This initiative provides choice as it offers an alternative sustainable travel mode to users to help them get around the county and the initiative has the potential to reduce traffic congestion and to lower car ownership levels.” Paul Reid, chief executive, Fingal County Council added: “Fin-
gal County Council is always delighted to cooperate in any initiative that promotes sustainable modes of transport and reduces traffic congestion.
‘Innovative’ “Initiatives, like GoCar, allow people to scale back on their car usage and to avail of innovative car-sharing facilities when needed. “The council looks forward to a successful par tnership with GoCar.” Colm Brady, managing director of GoCar, said: “We are delighted to offer car-sharing in
Dublin 15. “With GoCar planning to double the number of vehicles available in 2017 to over 300, we’re constantly open to feedback from the public on an area where they would like to see car-sharing. “Local communities can visit GoCar.ie/ Locations to request a GoCar near their workplace or home.” Since it was launched in 2008, more than 11, 0 0 0 d r i ve r s h ave signed up to GoCar, and it now offers more than 250 vehicles across 200 locations. With pay as you go
pricing and no subscription charges, the scheme is aimed at people who only need occasional access to a car but don’t want to own one, or families who occasionally need a second car.
Locations GoCar vehicles are available from locations including Mill Road, Blanchardstown (adjacent to E-Car points), Park Avenue, Castleknock, Portersgate Estate, Clonsilla (adjacent to Pay & Displa machine), Mulhuddart Village, Castleknock Rise and Main Street, Blanchardstown.
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WE’VE teamed up with REHAB RECYCLE to offer you the chance to WIN a Reconditioned Core I5 Desktop computer OR Laptop for the school of your choosing – the school can decide whether a PC or laptop suits their requirements best. To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize for YOUR school just visit the #RehabRecycleComp post on our Facebook page (Facebook.com/DublinGazetteNewspapers) and tell us which school you think deserves this prize. You can also email us the name of the school you vote for to competitions@dublingazette.com. The school with the most votes wins! Closing date for entries is 31st August 2017. Rehab Recycle is one of the largest employers of people with disabilities in Ireland and works to promote an equal and integrated workforce through social enterprise. Rehab Recycle actively repurpose electronic IT equipment, such as laptops and desktops which are received through the corporate donations scheme PromiseIT to Rehab Recycle, who supply schools and community groups with high-quality laptops and desktops.
Karen Clince, owner. Picture: Conor Healy
Childcare company expands IRISH company Tigers Childcare is expanding further across Dublin with the acquisition of three childcare services from a large multinational chain. The deal will bring another 400 children under Tigers Childcare’s services and more than double staff numbers from 54 to 112. The centres are located in Belmayne, Blanchardstown and Leopardstown and will add to the 10 existing Tigers Childcare centres, catering for over 700 children. Speaking of the acquisition, owner and CEO Karen Clince said: “As a passionate believer in providing the highest quality care possible, I am continually seeking new opportunities to bring Tigers Childcare’s high standards in childcare provision and staff training to even more children. “In acquiring these three large centres we can cater for many more parents and children in these locations and are confident we have the requisite systems in place to manage and continue to develop premium childcare services for them.” As well as on-site preschool and after-school childcare services within eight school settings in Dublin, Tigers Childcare also provides full-day care services at purposebuilt early years centre in Swords in Dublin and Ashbourne in Meath. Clince, the sole owner of Tigers Childcare, also chairs the Fingal Childcare Committee and is trained in the world-renowned ITERS and ECERS scales, for which only 50 people in Ireland are trained.
24 August 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 5
CLONEE ESTATE | PARENTS URGED TO WARN OVER NEEDLE DANGERS
Stash of syringes found by children Dance school MARK O’BRIEN
LOCALS are being urged to remind their children to never pick up needles after syringes were found in a Clonee estate over the weekend. Cllr David McGuinness (Ind) shared photos of a stash of syringes that were found by a group of children in Hunters Run. The needles were removed by the Blanchardstown Drug Task Force and Cllr McGuinness said while he believed that this was an isolated incident, it acted as a timely reminder for parents to warn their children of the dangers of picking up needles. Cllr McGuinness added that while there may have been stories of such incidents happening in the area many years ago, there were now sufficient services in place to
The stash of syringes found by children in Hunters Run
deal with such incidents. “There’s so many things in place now, between needle exchanges and the Blanchardstown Drug Task Force and just general awareness that it’s inappropriate to be leaving hypodermics around,” he said. “You don’t want the area to
look bad but it’s a good opportunity to remind children that picking up stuff is wrong anyway but when it comes to needles, it’s so dangerous.” Cllr McGuinness stressed that he believed that the incident was a one-off. “I’m certainly not going to suggest that this is something that I’m very worried about in the sense that I’ve never seen it before,” he said. “It’s a one-off and there seemed to be a high concentration in that one area so it strikes me that someone may have stashed them there for later use.” The Blanchardstown Drug Task Force advise parents to remind children that if they find a needle, they should not pick it up and should immediately inform a parent or trusted adult.
When an adult is removing the needle, they should use a container that does not leak and has a screw cap – such as a bleach bottle of peanut butter jar. The jar should be brought to the needle and the needle should be picked up with two fingers holding the middle of the needle. The needle should then be placed in the jar, with the cap should be screwed tightly and then the Drug Task Force should be contacted for removal. If there is a cap for the needle on the ground, it should also be put in the jar but it should not be attempted to put the cap back on the needle as this is the easiest way to get a needle stick injury. Fur ther information can be found by contacting the Blanchardstown Drug Task Force on 01 8604845.
to do us proud OVER one hundred dancers and supporters from the Fit Kids/Fit Teens Dance School jetted out to Glasgow to proudly represent Ireland in The World Street Dance Championships 2017 from August 24 to 27. After an unprecedented number from the school qualified back in April, the youngsters have been practicing hard as they take on Japan, Canada, Bulgaria, Netherlands, Germany, Australia, USA, UK and many other countries in the Crews, Solos, Duos, Quads and Battles sections. The students range in age from 5 to 25 and come from Blanchardstown, Clonee, Dunboyne, Lucan, Celbridge, Finglas, Skerries and Swords. Although Fit Kids/Fit Teens has represented Ireland at many international events, this is the largest group to fly the flag at the four-day competition.
6 BLANCH GAZETTE 24 August 2017
Out and About
Curtain comes down on West’ camp ever! Having a well earned rest
O
VER 200 attendees took to the stage in The Wilson and Wright Theatre in Kings Hospital School as the curtain came down on another fantastic Westside Summer Camp. Over two weeks participants took part in dance, singing and acting classes in the lead up to a staged production on the final day. A complete schedule of classes available at WestSide can be found at www.WestSidePerformingArts.ie
Westsiders with attitude
A smile say it all
Rehearsal Time
New Spanish friends
Happy Birthday Angel
Could get used to this
Hardwork
24 August 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 7
Jevgenijus Cistiakovas (625 points) with
A class above
Priomhoide Fionnuala Ni Chaisil
Seamus Kinsella (543 points)
L
UTTRELLSTOWN Community College had plenty of reasons to celebrate with this year’s Leving Cert results. Principal Fionnuala Ni Chaisil said: “Two students gained over 600 points and five additional gained over 500 points - this along with numerous students gaining over 400 points makes 2017 (our 3rd Leaving Cert) the highest results for academic achievers in LCC so far. More importantly to us in LCC is the fact that all students were winners and what our staff achieved with every individual student has amazed me again as Priomhoide. “I have had a very proud day as students and their parents have gone out of their way to let myself and Oide McAlinden know how appreciative they are for the support, guidance, and positive environment that LCC provided.” “Students whose points range from 450 to 625 will be presented with the Gradaim Lotrail award at a Welcome back event in October, and we look forward to seeing all of the year group back for that event.” See our Education supplement to learn about college life
Oisin Campbell (613 points)
Amandine Hong-Minh (566 points)
Aoife Lynch (543 points)
Phillip Simango (511 points)
8 BLANCH GAZETTE 24 August 2017
FOROIGE | PROJECT PROVIDES WIDE RANGE OF ACTIVITIES FOR 10-TO-18 YEAR OLDS POLICING
Mayor pays tribute to summer camp success MARK O’BRIEN MEMBERS of the Foroige Mulhuddart Youth Project summer camps had their efforts marked at a Recognition Night ceremony in Mulhuddart Community Centre. Mayor of Fingal Mary McCamley attended the ceremony and presented certificates to the participants. Mayor McCamley paid tribute to all involved in the successful project. She said: “I would like to pay special tribute to Jean O’Gorman and the staff of the youth project who worked so very hard to make the summer camps a success. They are such a great bunch of people. “I am on the advisory committee of Mulhuddart Foroige and realise all the great work that takes place in the area. “Well done to everyone who attended the camps and well done to all the volunteers also.” Jean O’Gorman, manager of the youth
service said: “Summer 2017 was another fun one for young people in Mulhuddart. “Over 300 Summer Programme places were on offer this year in Foroige’s Mulhuddart Community Youth Project. “The project aimed to provide a wide range of activities for 10 to 18-year-olds that meets their personal development, recreational and social needs during the summer. Variety “This year there was a huge variety of courses, over 10 weeks, providing something for everyone. “Courses included Mini business, art, cookery, multi-sports, kayaking, swimming, fashion design, GAA, health and beauty, technology and animal welfare. “The recognition night was held to celebrate the enthusiastic and energetic involvement of all the young people involved.”
Sasha Odemena received her certificate from the Mayor. Sasha attended the summer camp and participated in the Art week and Tech week Projects. She said that she had a great time and made some great friends. Her mother Samantha, who attended at the Recognition Night was delighted with the camps and stated that they were a positive event for teenagers in the area and that she was very proud of Sasha receiving her certificate and the fact that she, along with others, participated fully in the camps and completed the projects. Foroige is the leading youth organisation in Ireland and has been working with young people since 1952. Anyone interested in more information can visit the Foroige Mulhuddart Facebook page or contact Jean on 0861455452.
Mary McCamley with Sasha Odemena at the Foroige presentation
Appeal to find Aishling GARDAI are seeking the public’s assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 34-year-old Clonsilla woman Aishling Donnelly. Aishling was last seen on August 17 at approximately 3.30pm on O’Connell Street, Dublin. She is described as being 5’ 5’’ tall with brown shoulder length hair. When last seen she was wearing a blue jacket, silver jumper and jeans. Anyone who can assist is asked to contact Store Street Garda Station on 01 6668000, The Garda Confidential Telephone Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.
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DUBLINBUSINESS
Dublin districts competing for BOI award, funding
SEVERAL Dublin areas are in the running to win the title of Bank of Ireland’s National Enterprising Town Winner 2017, with total funding of €110,000 to be distributed in a number of categories. The Liberties, Ballymun, the docklands, Dun Laoghaire, Sandyford, Blackrock, Rush, Malahide, Tallaght and Rathcoole are competing in various categories, including regional runner-up, regional winner, city award, merit awards, national category winners and the overall national winner, which will win €23,000, a trophy and the top title. Colin Kingston, Dublin provincial director, BOI said: “We recognise that SMEs, start-ups and community organisations are a significant driver of the overall prosperity of the city or county. Local business owners and community groups want to see their town doing well, and there is nothing like a bit of healthy competition to motivate people to put their best foot forward. “We want to recognise and reward those places where small businesses and community groups are working together with their local council and State agencies to promote enterprise in their area.” Some of the key criteria for consideration include partnerships and engaging with the diaspora, local enterprise initiatives and business groups, strategic planning to support enterprise development, the visual attractiveness of the town to help support economic growth, and any business awards or recognition that the town or area has achieved. The overall €110,000 funding includes €15,000 for the overall national winner,€5,000 for a city award, 12 regional runner-up awards of €2,000 and three €5,000 awards for national category winners. Judging panels are visiting each of the shortlisted 78 entries from now until mid-October, with the winners to be announced in November.
TECH | DUBLINERS’ UNIVERSITY SEARCH ENGINE FIRM EXPANDING INTO OZ
Walkinstown lads’ online startup goes walkabout MARK O’BRIEN
UniBrowse co-founders Niall
A TEAM of Irish 25-yearolds are expanding their tech start-up to international markets to help young people worldwide choose the right third-level course. UniBrowse was cofounded by Walkinstown natives Alan O’Beirne and Niall Cronin, along with college friends Kenneth Casey and Walter Holohan, as an online search engine that makes it easier for school students to find college courses. It launched in Ireland in December 2016. Now, the company is expanding to Australia, with plans to launch in the UK and USA in the coming months. Announcing the international expansion yesterday, O’Beirne said: “Australia is seeing an increase in college drop-out rates, which is resulting in thirdlevel completion rates being at an all-time low. “From our research, the
Cronin and Alan O’Beirne
reason for students dropping out of college in Australia is the same as the reason here in Ireland: schoolleavers just aren’t getting the right information when it comes to choosing their college course and they end up in courses that really don’t suit them. “UniBrowse was born out of our own personal experiences,” O’Beirne continued. “Myself and my three cofounders all struggled with the decision-making pro-
cess around college courses when we were doing our Leaving Cert several years ago. More recently, I saw how my younger sister struggled to find useful information when she was finishing school last year. College “When you’re finishing school, you feel like you’re being asked to make decisions that will impact on the rest of our life. This is daunting enough without the added complication of
trying to sift through hundreds of college courses, some with little to no information available. “At UniBrowse, we make the college decisionmaking process much easier, so students feel really informed in advance about what’s involved in the course they’re interested in, and whether it will suit them. “We provide a complete bank of undergraduate college courses, and students can search keywords for
the course for them. Once they’ve found a course they like the look of, they can click it to find even further information, such as the modules completed throughout the degree and whether an Erasmus overseas placement is an option as part of the course.” In addition to international expansion, UniBrowse will launch the second phase of its site here in Ireland next month. “We’re keeping the exact details under wraps for now, but Phase Two will be targeted at parents,” O’Beirn added. “The process of finding the right college course isn’t just a stressful time for students, but for their parents too.” UniBrowse aims to scale up and fast, according to O’Beirne. “After we launch in Australia, the UK and US are next on our list. Our vision is to reduce college dropout rates globally,” he said. n Further information is available at unibrowse.ie
Businesses urged to take a bite at a top Pakman waste award TIME is running out for businesses and organisations looking to highlight their environmentally-friendly waste management policies in this year’s annual Pakman awards, with the closing date of Thursday, August 31 rapidly approaching. The awards celebrate excellence in waste management and recycling, with this year’s awards seeing a brand-new category, Innovation in Waste Management, with the winner of this inaugural award to be chosen by a panel led by businesswoman and Dragon’s Den’s Chanelle McCoy. She said: “I’ll be looking to
award those who have demonstrated going the extra mile when it comes to protecting the environment through positive waste management and recycling practices. “I encourage everyone to get involved and to give their business or organisation the chance to be recognised for truly making a difference to recycling in Ireland.”
‘Awareness’ Repak chief executive Seamus Clancy said: “The growth and increased success of these awards year on year is a testament to how far we’ve come as a nation in our
strong recycling practices and our aim is to continue to spread awareness and secure positive results in this sector. Categories range across a number of recycling and waste management sectors, including We’ll Take It Back Retailer Champion, Community Recycling Project of the Year, Waste Recycling Facility of the Year, Innovation in Waste Management, and Environmental Education and Awareness Initiative. To enter, see www.pakman.ie, with the deadline for nominations set at midnight on August 31.
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TALLAGHT P14
ASDFSDAF P27P18 STILLORGAN
LEARNINGCURVE Whether you’re a first-time student or want to boost your existing qualifications, there’s a lot to learn about college life – luckily, The Gazette has everything you need to know
GAZETTE
BLACKROCK P12
Same old joy, tears as the Leaving Cert results rolled out using new grading
MOVING ON
It’s great to be starting college life – but first, best of luck to find a place ... RENT RACE P20
TAKE a moment to think of the mammies and daddies (and other guardians) of Ireland, who were no doubt nervous wrecks as they waited for 2017’s 58,000 Leaving Certs to get their results last week. Although for most, The Leaving is a once-off affair, a number of repeat students had a unique perspective on this year’s exams – 2017 saw an inaugural 14 score band grading system put in place, compared to the standard eight of previous years. As you’d expect from using a larger range of grades, there was an immediate impact across the Leaving, with a sharp drop in failure rates in some subjects, such as Higher Maths. A small number of critics raised perenially popular claims of the State’s exams “dumbing down” – claims that the Department of Education rejected as optics, with the department, and a number of education specialists, discussing how the new grading system eases the pressure on students while simultaneously taking into better account how grades are reported to them under the new grading. However, as with any new system, subtle shifts came into play with the marks. For example, the unlamented E grade is no longer an automatic fail, but still scoops up points for the student’s CAO total – a move to be welcomed, but countering that gain the new range of grades was thought to have prompted some students into trying a higher level in the hopes of scoring better, potentially resulting in a weaker outcome than if they had stayed at a lower level. Subsequent years will show how the new system is playing out for everyone, but regardless of their results on the day, well done to all the ex-Leaving Certs (and to any who may repeat) on completing their exams!
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LEARNINGCURVE
Open day to showcase a brilliant Blackrock hub AS THE principal of Blackrock Further Education Institute (BFEI), located in Blackrock village, Deirdre Hanamy is passionate about the benefits of taking a further education course. She points to the benefits of such courses, such as flexible entry requirements, qualifications to go directly into employment, or qualifications that provides alternative pathways to degree courses. Deirdre says: “If you did not get the CAO points to go directly to third level, then you should consider coming to our next
Come along to Blackrock Further Education Institute’s upcoming open day next week
open day on Wednesday, August 30, to find out about our courses such as Applied Psychology, PreUniversity Law, Business Studies or Computer Science courses, which offer alternative pathways to degree courses. “Students who just fin-
ished their courses last May are now taking up the places in Computer Science in UCD, Law in DIT, and Psychology in the IADT, Dun Laoghaire. “Finally, students who choose to study at BFEI will also benefit from
small teaching groups and continuous assessment, as this is an integral element of most of our courses and excellent career guidance advice.” BFEI offers a wide variety of courses at Level 5 and 6 in a great range of diverse areas, from Business and Accounting to Design, Health and IT skills, as well as many other sectors and skillsets. Some courses such as Accounting Technician, Office IT Skills, Interior Design, Applied Psychology, Health and Wellbeing Therapies are timetabled for mornings only to cater for students who
have other commitments. There is also an option to enrol on the new Accounting Technician Apprenticeship course and earn as you learn. Of the open day on Wednesday, August 30 from noon to 6pm, Deirdre says: “I recommend coming along to find out more about the college and courses, meet our staff, and see our facilities including computer laboratories, design studios, and beauty salons and an ICT learning centre.” Further details on the institute and all its many courses are available online at www.bfei.ie.
Half of parents haven’t saved for third-level costs HALF of Irish parents have no financial plans in place to help put their children through thirdlevel education. That’s according to a new report by Aviva, with its Cost of Education research showing that 49% of parents are unprepared for the cost of further education. The Aviva research found that on average, parents expect to pay out €5,122 a year to send a child to a thirdlevel college or university, while if the student has to study away from home, the expected cost is almost double, at €10,125.
The research found that a quarter (27%) are saving for their children’s primary and secondary education, but the next step remains a financially daunting challenge for many. The research for the report, carried out by RED C for Aviva, found support for the idea of a student loan system with repayment to be contingent on the income earned by graduates. Three out of four parents thought such a system was at least worth exploring as a funding option, although just one in four students thought it was a great idea.
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LEARNINGCURVE
ANNIVERSARY: INSTITUTE GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH WITH EVEN MORE CHOICES
ITT’s reason to help celebrate 25 years of top academic excellence IT TALLAGHT is celebrating its 25th year this upcoming academic year, and there are various activities and events planned throughout the year as part of the celebrations. Since we opened our doors in 1992, multitudes of students have chosen IT Tallaght as their college of choice, and have subsequently gone on to have wonderful careers and enriched lives. It has been a pleasure to have all the students here throughout the years, and we eagerly await the arrival of this year’s new first years in September. Our first open evening of the year takes place on Monday, September 4 from 5:30-7:30pm. This event is aimed at those who are interested in enrolling in fulland part-time courses in IT Tallaght. Staff members will be available to answer any and all queries on course information, fees, grants, careers and so on. Along with our vast range of courses in engineering, science, computing, humanities and business, we have exiting new programmes in biomedical design, digital
marketing, international business, media and digital arts, computing/IT, social care and culinary nutrition. We also have various free springboard courses in computing/IT/technology aimed at those who wish to up-skill in order to commence or enhance their careers. Bus services
Our two private bus routes (Kildare town to IT Tallaght serving Newbridge, Naas and Rathcoole, and Maynooth to IT Tallaght serving Celbridge, Leixlip, Lucan, Griffeen, Ballyowen, and Ronanstown/Fonthill) allow students in our region ease of access to and from the college. These bus services reflect the growing popularity of the institute in the south-west Dublin areas and Kildare. Please keep in contact with our website (www.it-tallaght.ie) throughout the year for more information on our 25th anniversary events. For our other useful links, see www.it-tallaght.ie/busand-rail-routes, www.it-tallaght.ie/fulltimecourses, and www.it-tallaght.ie/parttimecourses.
The atrium at the college, where students and visitors often get a glimpse of ITT’s diverse academic and social life. Picture: Nenad Malik
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LEARNINGCURVE
NETWORKING: INNOVATION TO THE FORE IN ITB’S LEARN+WORK PROGRAMME
A new initiative to grow ICT skills FOR many students, the CAO offers herald the start of an exciting new phase in their educational journey. But what do you do, if you don’t get the offer you wanted or have changed your mind about pursuing a traditional degree course? The Institute of Technology Blanchardstown’s (ITB) Department of Informatics has opened its doors to recruit a new wave of students looking to access career opportunities in the ICT sector.
The Learn+Work Programme in Networking Technologies is a full-time course combining blocks of academic study with blocks of paid industry work placement. This work experience gives learners the opportunity to apply their learning, be coached by industry experts and develop the work-ready skills to gain employment upon graduation. Following completion, students are awarded a Higher Certificate in Sci-
ence in Computing and Networking Technologies. The networking technologies course was designed in partnership with Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet to provide students with in-company placement, which accounts for approximately 50% of the course, accompanied by academic studies which provide the up-to-date technical and communication skills that are in high demand within the ICT sector. This includes modules
“The businesses we partner with tell us that they see the course as a low-risk recruitment opportunity; using the placement period as a method of assessing prospective employees for future vacancies. “Of course, this goes both ways, with students developing a very real impression of the IT industry, as well as a ‘taster’ of potential employers and workplaces.” Mark Keyes, work placement coordinator, ITB on computer systems, server administration and networks as well as the knowledge required to achieve highly-valued industry-certified awards such as CompTIA, Linux, Cisco, Microsoft and VMware, which are also facilitated through ITB. Students like Emmet Quinn (23) from Raheny receive exposure to experienced and creative mindsets, whilst making valuable connections with innovative compa-
nies such as Fleet Connect, based in Blanchardstown Corporate Park, who provide wi-fi and technology solutions for public transport. Emmet says the paid work experience was a real clincher in applying for the course, helping him to keep his independence and focus on his studies, which other courses might not have provided. “The lack of fees allows me much more time to
focus on my studies and puts me at a great advantage in terms of having the time to work on assignments and certifications. “The cer tifications themselves are also massively beneficial to my professional development, and for future job applications.” Patrick Cotter, chief executive of Fleet Connect, where Emmet is currently undertaking his work experience, says: “A new recruit needs to possess excellent communication skills, be adept at solving problems, take ownership of their job and be able to react to situations swiftly and confidently. “This is why we joined ITB’s Learn+Work programme. We believe it’s a
win-win situation because students get the opportunity to grow, learn and build a portfolio, while we get to avail of the best staff in the business.” The programme prepares candidates for careers in networking, data centre and Cloudbased disciplines, with roles including desktop service and support, network operation centre engineer, information security engineer, systems administrator, Cisco network engineer, helpdesk engineer, field service engineer and pre-sales engineer. Interested applicants can apply directly to www.itb.ie/learnandwork by August 27 for an aptitude test and interview, or call ITB at 01 885 1530.
Help is at hand for the best ‘Repeat’ HERE at O’Connell Secondary School, we truly believe that once inspired and motivated effectively, all students have the ability to achieve their own personal goals. Located in the heart of the city near Croke Park and in close proximity to Connolly, Clontarf and Drumcondra train, Luas and DART stations, our school at North Richmond Street offers a repeat year that’s a standalone programme run in a separate section of the school, and one which operates on a different timetable to the rest of the school. A full and wide range of subjects and levels are available from very experienced teachers who have helped pupils to dramatically improve their grades and CAO points. Detailed notes in all the subject areas are provided by the teachers. In addition, we provide constant supervision throughout the year, along with caring support structures with a dedicated year head and a safe
and secure environment for teaching and learning to take place. Most of those students who have taken part in the programme have gone on to further their studies at third-level institutions in Dublin and elsewhere. Compulsory supervised day and evening study takes place in a controlled and silent environment. Seminars on study and exam skills take place at the beginning of the school year and students are encouraged to avail of the services of the school’s career guidance department.
Comprehensive career guidance is indeed a core part of the programme and the individual career needs of each student are carefully explored and discussed on a number of occasions during the year. Monthly progress reports are compiled and sent out to parents throughout the year. Facilities at the school have been upgraded in recent years and students can now avail of our spacious and bright classrooms that are all equipped with digital projectors. Our three science laboratories have just been completely renovated, and are equipped to the highest standards in the country. Canteen facilities, serving hot and cold food, are available before lessons begin in the morning and at lunchtime. At all times we endeavour to maintain constant contact with parents/guardians and discuss any concerns that may arise. For further information, see www. oconnellschool.ie, or email principal@oconnellschool.ie.
LEARNINGCURVE
Some top tips for everyone applying to get a new job
Now that your results are back, just don’t panic! WE’VE all heard the old chestnut about “So-andso left school without their Leaving Cert, and just look how successful he/she has been”. Well, there’s more than a grain of truth in that, with teachers and college lecturers all over the country sharing the same message to any students who’re disappointed by their exam results: “Don’t panic!” Now, more than ever before, there are many pathways to education and training for students of any age and with any
interest with choices galore to help move forward with your studies and find the training or course that’s right for you. A positive outlook is key if you didn’t get the results you’d hoped for, with plenty of options to avail of. If you’re a school leaver, one obvious course of action is to repeat the Leaving Cert. While it may seem a bit daunting to go back, schools and teachers will be only too happy to try to help any returning students, with several specialist institutions also
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You may be disappointed with your results, but don’t be too disheartened, as you’ll still have many options
offering a range of services for ‘repeats’. The CAO could yet come to the rescue with a subsequent offer, but if not, there are other options to consider, such as a College of Further Education (CoFE). Of course, further education isn’t the only route
to take – apprenticeships are another excellent step to consider undertaking, offering their own challenges and rewards. These are just some of the many options to consider, so don’t despair at your results, as you have many more choices than you may realise ...
WHETHER you’re looking to go straight into the workplace after finishing school, or if you’re looking to take the next step on your career, it’s vital that you prepare for the task ahead. Although finding that dream (or ‘just’ your next) job could seem like a daunting task, recruitment experts offer a number of simple, clear objectives to help get that job you’re looking for. After all, that’s the ultimate aim of that great education you’ve been slaving away for! Keep these next few points in mind, and you’ll be on your way ... 1. Pretty much ever ything and everyone is online now, so tailor your profile to meet current online standards and expectations. These days, many employers and potential recruiters will look to check a candidate’s online profile, especially
if you’ve listed it for them. 2. If presenting a professional profile, such as on LinkedIn, ensure that it’s up to date and is also as accurate as possible. 3. Don’t be afraid to turn to your existing contacts, and maintain an amicable, courteous relationship with them. Ex-colleagues, lecturers, and even your favourite teachers could all help you on the way, or down the road, and the vast majority will be delighted to help. 4. Last but not least, make your application relevant to the role itself and the company. Your one-size-fitsall CV and cover letter could be great ... if you just want a ‘McJob’. However, virtually every employer or recruiter looks for, and expects, tangible proof that you want that specific job in that company, so be clear without going overboard.
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Enjoy the benefits of 30+ years of Stillorgan CoFE STILLORGAN College of Further Education has been a specialist centre for Further Education/Post Leaving Cert courses since 1986. During this time it has developed an enviable reputation for its delivery of Further Education programmes. The college offers a range of practical courses that develop the necessary skills for the workplace or to progress to further study in the Institutes of Technology or Universities. The college is innovative in providing courses that meet the current needs of industry. One of the new courses is a Level 5 course in Illustration & Design. This exciting course introduces students to the wideranging discipline of Illustration and helps them gain an improved understanding of the possibilities of image-making. A second new course for 2017/2018 is a Level 6 course in Photography. This course builds on the long-established and successful Level 5 course in Photography.
Another recent addition to the list of courses is a Level 5 course in Animation. This introductory course prepares students with little or no experience for a third level course in animation production. With a dual focus on drawing and computer skills, the course covers all the fundamental areas required for a successful portfolio submission. One of the longest established courses in the college is the Art Foundation course. This course provides tuition in areas such as Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Ceramics and Combined Materials. Graduates of this course leave with a very extensive portfolio that can be used to progress to Degree courses in colleges such as the National College of Art and Design (NCAD) and IADT Dun Laoghaire. The college also offers Level 5 and Level 6 course in Multimedia and Web Development. A unique strength of the Multimedia courses taught in the college is the emphasis they place on incorporating Digital
Video into multimedia content. This is a skill that is rarely taught on other similar courses and offers graduates of this course a particular advantage when it comes to the jobs market. Also on offer is a Travel and Tourism course with Airline Studies. This course prepares students for work in all areas of the travel industry. Courses in Media Production, Journalism and Level 5 and 6 courses in Computer Skills for Business round off the extensive offering of courses in the college. The staff of the college have extensive industry experience in their respective fields and are dedicated to ensuring that, whether aiming to move to Higher Education or entering the employment market, students leave the college with every skill necessary for the future. If you would like more information about the courses available in the college, more details are available from the college website: www.stillorgancollege.ie.
A Level 5 course in Animation awaits at Stillorgan College of Further Education – just one of the diverse range of options available at the long-established specialist centre for further education/post-Leaving Certificate courses
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Top tips to help students entering the rent race WITH less availability and rental property prices in Ireland increasing, students are facing huge challenges in the race for rental accommodation. OFTEC, the organisation that represents the domestic heating and cooking industry in Ireland, is concerned that many students will take the cheapest accommodation available without properly inspecting the property. With this in mind, they have issued top tips to help students ensure their accommodation is safe before they sign the dotted line. 1. Check the electrics and appliances– With rented residential accommodation it is the Landlord’s responsibility to ensure that the electrical installation and appliances provided by the landlord are safe when the tenancy begins and are in proper working order
throughout the tenancy. 2. Look for damp – If your house smells musty or you see evidence of mould, find out how the landlord is planning to fix the problem in the long term as mould has several health risks. 3. Raise the alarm – It is the landlord’s duty to provide fire and carbon monoxide alarms, as well as fire extinguishers, but the tenants should always test alarms on a regular basis. 4. Furniture and fittings – Ask the landlord for a list of everything that is included and make note of any damage that is there before you move it. 5. Heating requirements - Does your house have oil or gas fired central heating? At the minute, households on heating oil have the cheapest fuel bills of all the main heating systems. The Health & Safety
Authority recommends that all boilers should be serviced annually and tenants looking at an oil-fired property should ask for evidence of recent servicing. If you have concerns, ask for a CD/12 Landlord Oil Installation Check which is carried out by an OFTEC registered technician and will give you peace of mind. If the property has a gas boiler it must be checked by a 6. Note fire escapes – This is important particularly for apartment blocks but make sure they are secure from the outside to prevent unwanted visitors. 7. Secure your home – burglars target student areas because of lax security. Ask your landlord to fit key operating locks on the windows and five lever deadlocks on external doors.
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Quality Education with no Barriers through The Open College IRELAND’S largest dedicated provider of QQI/FETAC Awards, The Open College offers more than 90 QQI Levels 5 and 6 component cer tificates and major award programmes in a variety of subjects, delivered over a flexible mix of distance learning, e-learning and part-time attendance learning. Those looking to take their next steps in the world of Healthcare, Business and Finance, Management, Digital Media, Childcare, Law, Journalism, Special Needs, Montessori, Psychology and many more besides will be delighted by the choice on offer. The QQI awards you can achieve through The Open College are fully recognised by employers both nationally and internationally, and year-round
enrolment provides more flexibility and choice to prospective students than you will find at any other private college. Keenly aware of the challenge of balancing further education and wider life, The Open College ensures that your next step can be expertly tailored around your life – rather than the other way around. For more information on courses and programme advice you can contact The Open College at The Learning Centre, Leopardstown Business Centre, Ballyogan Road, Dublin 18; telephone 01 206 1828, or 01 206 1829. Advice lines are open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 5.30pm; you can also fax 01 206 1750, or email info@theopencollege.com.
DUBLINLIFE Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week
FUN-LOVING ROCCO WILL BE A GREAT COMPANION OUR Dog of the Week looking for their #SpecialSomeone* is Rocco, a one-year-old Staffy Cross. He is a fun-loving and affectionate dog, who loves his daily walks and really enjoys swimming! Rocco will need basic training, but he’s a quick learner, gets on well with other dogs and loves meeting new people. Rocco likes to be busy and would make a great hiking or jogging companion. He’s also into health food - his favourite training treats are broccoli, carrots and apples. This big softie is looking for an active family who will give him the fuss, cuddles and attention he deserves. If you can be NAME’s #SpecialSomeone*, then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off Exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website, www.dogstrust. ie. You can also find them on Facebook, at www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline, or on Twitter @ DogsTrust_IE.
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50 things to do at Electric Picnic
Ireland’s biggest festival is just around the corner
... get charged for our quick tick list of the weekend’s essentials, from a few musical tips, to all that other stuff Picture: Paulo Gonçalves
See pages 22 & 23
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N O S ’ T A H W
JAMES HENDICOTT LET’S start by saying It’s not all about the lineup. The big announcements are just the backdrop to what really makes up Electric Picnic: an atmospheric weekend that’s always guaranteed to be one of the best parties on offer any given year. 2017 will be no different: here, we explore a few of those things you just have to do in a stroll around Stradbally’s temporary heart in early September....
E D I U G S T N E EV with JAMES HENDICOTT
Stiff Little Fingers
Old school punks drop in on the Academy to loudly blast through a few hits, with support from Ruts DC. Not one for the faint hearted: expect a lot of angry, punchy, politically-tinged noise. August 25.
McGregor v Mayweather
The circus is over, and the Notorious is all set to swing at his aging but lethal opponent as he tries his hand at a totally different sport. Could the cocky Crumlin man upset the odds and put Money on the canvas? Find a screen. August 26.
Pictures: Allen Kiely, Christian Tierney, Ruth Medjber
CONOR MCGREGOR
Flying South
Another thoughtful Filmbase event focuses on the spoken word and mental health, with the collective looking to open doors and change views on different types of mental wellbeing issues as they bare their hearts. August 25, €5.
The Ukulele Hooley
Dun Laoghaire’s most unlikely music festival returns for another year, as the harbour town celebrates all that’s great about the ukulele. They’ll be open mics, workshops and jamming on August 27.
Niall Horan
That Irish one from One Direction will be greeted with breathtaking enthusiasm, no doubt, by his legion of largely young fans as he returns home to play The Olympia. He’s got his own material now, but we’re expecting a few nods to that band he used to be in along the way. August 29.
Monsters Wanted
Get scary with a workshop aiming to teach people about the art of being monstrous, but also offering jobs for those who fit the bill: a live horror experience taking place in October. So like a very weird, very fun mass job interview, basically. The RDS. August 26.
The Uncool Flea Market
A misnomer, we reckon. Phibsborough spills onto the banks of the Royal Canal for home made food, second hand trinkets and a little bit of live local music. The evening offering takes place on August 26.
New album of the week
Queens of the Stone Age - Villains. Powerful rockers return with another boisterous, riff-heavy effort complete with contributions from Mark Ronson as producer, and, bizarrely, a comic polygraph test making up one track. Guaranteed to be beautifully messy.
Grab a hot tub The perfect Body and Soul Sunday morning hangover cure. Yeah, we hope they have good water filters, too. Dance at the Salty Dog at 3am Because (a) they let you bring cans and (b) it’s a pirate ship in a forest, and that can’t be wrong. Get yourself some political hip-hop Bernie bros Run The Jewels are just wonderful. And then there’s A Tribe Called Quest to get your teeth into. Hit the Body and Soul fire late at night Flames flicker, the bars are closing and you’re listening to four stages at once, but it’s still the best banter on site. Join the Duran Duran sing-along Her name is Rio, and she’s probably settled down and had a few kids by now... Have an S Club Party 5ive are playing, too. Cos there ain’t no party like a 90s nostalgia party. Go mad for Madness Because midafternoon bouncing ska pop could hardly be more fun. Explore the Other Voices stage Sure to have a couple of top-class special guests over the course of the weekend, Other Voices’ trip out of Dingle is invariably excellent. Ride the bumper cars at 2am We vocally condemn drink driving. We very much condone drunk bumper-car driving. Check in on Olaf’s interviews Hot Press’ rogue interviewer is sure to drag someone from the main stage and interrogate them on something they’d planned to keep quiet. Get a five minute massage They’ll only cost you a charity donation, and after a day standing in front of a stage... Check out eco credentials at Global Green Or just learn to carve something out of driftwood, or weave a plant basket. Perfect for the inevitable lineup lull. Have your Father Ted moment Sure, we know the Divine Comedy are lovely in every way, but we still badly want THAT melody, please, Mr Hannon. Check out some local stars We’d suggest Bitch Falcon, complete with their new line up, Elaine Mai, Saint Sister and Soule as a starting point.
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THE ULTIMATE ELECTRIC PICNIC ‘CHECKLIST’ Ireland’s biggest festival is just around the corner... here’s our quick tick list of the weekend’s essentials, from a few musical tips, to all that other stuff
Wear a daft outfit Not a onesie, we all got over that in 2012. We’re thinking more a rhino borrowed from a Dublin marathon runner, or a Disney character. Hell, you pick! Smuggle in a few shots Is it allowed? No. Have half the audience got a hip flask in at some point? Hell yes. (Sorry, EP!). Catch the maddest live act at the festival We’re calling it: it’ll be the incredible glam-pop rising stars HMLTD. Don’t miss it. Find yourself in a 4am gazebo gathering Because they’re mighty, plus anyone who takes up all that space in the campsite has to share, right? Grab a lineup shirt Especially if it’s your first Picnic: it’ll be essential wear when you’re heading for your tenth in a few years. Explore The Pretenders’ latest Because Chrissie Hynde and co don’t do much wrong. Swim in the lake Yes, you can,
and yes, it is allowed. In fact it’s encouraged. Just go for the hangover cure, not the 3am skinny dip, right? Right. Watch something random for a few hours Sure, we all have our highlighters on the lineup at some point. Set yourself free and see where the festival takes you. Don’t fixate on backstage Trust us, it’s not all that exciting. In fact, the VIP area is positively lame. Though the drink queues are shorter, so if you’ve got the pass, abuse away. Eat Pie Minister The biggest option, where they drench your pie with the minty peas and the heap of random toppings lobbed on the top. Drool. Drink before lunch Because where else do you get the chance? Heckle a comedian Just a little. At the right moment. Or at least hit up the comedy tent: the perfect half hour aside from music, music, music. Bounce along to Ireland’s hip-
hop wave Jafaris is the best live act to come out of Ireland in years, and Katie Laffan is top notch, too. Check out The Hazel Wood The chillout forested corner is returning for its second year, and it went down an absolute storm in 2016. Go futuristic at Anachronica Future rave. If you’ve been to Glastonbury, it’s a lot like Arcadia on a far, far smaller scale. Which, let’s be honest, is still pretty cool. Lose your friends On purpose, at least once. Absence makes the heart grow fonder, and so do random encounters with festival goers. Hit up the kids area You don’t need a child to play a few games of connect four or chuckle at a clown. Just let the kids go first! Ogle Foil, Arms and Hog See the breakthrough comedians run through their skits on Irish life on the comedy stage. Soak up The Rubberbandits A bag for me, a bag for you... vaguely
political, vaguely hip-hop, entirely funny live. Dig in. Embrace the rain However bad it gets, it’s not as bad as Massive Attack’s headline set a few years back. Trust us, it just isn’t. Learn some cooking skills Not what you came for? Who cares, learning how to cook the perfect curry is what Sunday mornings were made for: embrace the Theatre of Food Speak some Irish The Mindfield is going gaeltacht, why not stretch that linguistic muscle? Check out Loah The astonishing ‘Artsoul’ artist from Maynooth is going to be a superstar. She’s on the Other Voices stage. Talk mental health Pieta House are another showing up at Mindfield, and a weekend away seems the perfect chance to spend an hour taking a step back. Get involved in THAT Elbow song Sure, we all remember last
time, and yes, it is the perfect festival tune. But leave after the third chorus, they’ll do about 15 of them. Get soothed by Michael Kiwanuka Like Florence Welch’s proverbial ‘kiss with a fist’, Kiwanuka will sooth your soul while hammering you with his politics. Awesome. Track down the jelly shots Someone’s making a fortune on these little babies. Do we care? Not after a couple of pints, we don’t. Book Monday off work Stop lying to yourself, you’re not going to make it. No, not even if you go home after the headliner. Detox And breath.
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Time to enjoy clean Toyota Ireland launches new road safety app Tesla electric power In the Fast Lane TOYOTA Ireland has launched it’s free ‘Face
It Down’ app for iPhone and Android which is
designed to save lives on Irish Roads. The app is launched in partnership with the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and Topaz. It will reward all
drivers for putting their phone face down when driving, allowing them to redeem the points for a complimentary hot drink at Topaz Re Store outlets
Irish drivers are in for a treat if they can stretch to owning a new Tesla electric car as MICHAEL MORONEY found during a chance meet with an Irish Tesla owner in recent weeks.
nationwide. International research has shown that making a call while driving will make a driver four times more likely to crash while texting makes crashing a staggering twenty-three times more likely. As Ireland’s biggest car brand, Toyota Ireland felt a responsibility to solve this social issue by creating safer roads for everyone. Use of mobile phones while driving is a big problem on Irish roads. Too many people still drive while on their phone to take a call, text, snap a selfie, update their social media channels or check an email. Even glancing at a phone when it lights up is a distraction. Toyota Ireland has developed the app with the aim of changing driver behaviour and improving road safety for everyone. Users can download the Face It Down app from the Google Play Store or Apple Store for free.
Opel and Vauxhall join PSA in historic move THE sale of Opel with its brands Opel and Vauxhall by General Motors to the French PSA Group was finalised at the start of August. “It is a historic day,” said Opel Automobile GmbH CEO Michael Lohscheller. “We are proud to join PSA and are now opening a new chapter in our history after 88 years with General Motors. We will continue our path of making technology ‘made in Germany’ available to everyone. The combination of our strengths will enable us to turn Opel and Vauxhall into a profitable and selffunded business. We have set ourselves the clear target of returning to profitability by 2020.” PSA Chairman of the board Carlos Tavares said: “We will assist Opel and Vauxhall’s return to profitability and aim to set new industry benchmarks together. We will unleash the power of these iconic brands and the huge potential of its existing talents. Opel will remain German, Vauxhall will remain British. They are the perfect fit to our existing portfolio of French brands Peugeot, Citroen and DS Automobiles.” The market share of the enlarged Groupe PSA is now around 17% in Europe, making it the continent’s second largest carmaker with first or second place in main markets. A s already assured when the contract was signed in March, all employee codetermination rights will remain unchanged.
I CAME on a superb driving opportunity by sheer chance over the August Bank Holiday weekend, which put me behind the wheel of one of the most exciting cars to come on the Irish market. Tesla is seeking to break the mould when it comes to car ownership, ever since the US company began production in 2008. The Model S is just one of a range of new generation electric cars that Tesla claims are both stylish, high performance, yet highly practical. The Tesla aim is to produce true zero emissions cars and the Model S that I drove lived up to that dream along with a hugely impressive driving performance. I accidentally met up with an Irish Tesla owner who generously brought me for a test drive. Then, with ultimate trust and confidence in me, or a sense of insanity, he let me loose behind the Tesla S. And yes, it was truly a superb but too-short lived motoring experience. The Tesla Model S electric motor power is enormous, delivering the equivalent of 600bhp, and virtually in an instant. The test car was a Dual Motor Model S denoted by the badge on the rear which read P85D, D meaning dual and P the symbol for the more powerful rear motor. This all wheel drive power package gives supercar acceleration performance with outstanding smoothness and zero
The Tesla Model S tested was the P85D version, which means that it has an 85kW motor, dual drive to the front and rear with a high performance rear motor that gives super fast acceleration
power is quiet yet enormous to propel the car at a pace that would be the envy of many of the turboElectric Motor powered super cars. This car was bought 120hp direct from Tesla in the UK 4.4 seconds while now the company 490km range/ has set up an Irish operafull charge tion at 92 Bracken Road, 0g/km Sandyford, Dublin 18. The A0 €120 Irish price list and options are available on the com5 star (2017) pany’s website. 4 years/ 80,000km This now two-year old €82,500 car is still performing to its mounted in front, to all ability and up to recently four wheels. Tesla claims was getting its annual serthat this sacrifices efficien- vice in the UK. cy in favour of all-weather Tesla fit brushless electric motors to their cars so traction. Using electric motors there are no wearing parts the Model S motor is in the motors. The suspenlighter, smaller and more sion is the only possible efficient than its rear wheel wear area. Wear to the disc brakes drive counterpart, and also combines improved is minimal. This is because range with much faster there is a form of graduated electric motor braking acceleration. The only sound is road that minimises the effort noise, the noise of the tyres on the discs. Tesla claims that softand some wind noise. The
Tesla Model S Electric
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine Engine power 0 – 100km/hr Economy CO2 emissions Road Tax Band Euro NCAP Rating Warranty Entry Price acceleration drag. With two motors, one in the front and one in the rear, Model S claims to digitally and independently controls torque to the front and rear wheels. The result is impressive traction control coupled with great road holding in all conditions. Conventional all-wheel drive cars use complex mechanical linkages to distribute power from a single engine, usually
ware downloads minimise service time and are fed into the car while its charging at home or at a Tesla super charger. This Tesla owner is very confident that in 10 years time the car will have all of the latest product downloads and given that its power is a non-wearing electric motor, it will still be as good as new. This Tesla is a revolution in car ownership, running cost performance and ownership management. The car is not cheap to buy at €82,500 entry price, while cheaper models are on the way. Tesla claims that the car is a part of evolving technology and will be forever young because of upgrades, while you don’t need to be scared of the huge technology screen; if you can use an iPad or iPhone, that part won’t be a put off, but the price might.
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MOTORING
Nissan launches upgraded Qashqai
Poor tyre inflation now costs you more
NISSAN has upgraded its most popular car of recent times, the Qashqai with significant changes in four areas: exterior design, interior quality, driving performance and some new Nissan Intelligent Mobility technologies. The new Qashqai comes in four grades: XE, SV, SV Premium and SVE, with a starting price of €26,070. The most obvious but somewhat subtle exterior changes to the Qashqai see a new contemporary design featuring the iconic ‘V-motion’ grille along with new front bumper and front fog lamps. The Qashqai also features ‘boomerang’ Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) and the LED light motif which has been extended across the whole lamp at the rear. On the inside the changes include a new D-shaped steering wheel. The seats have been redesigned with claims of a more durable upholstered finish or a choice of quality soft nappa leather, with 3D quilting. Out on the road, Nissan claims that this new Qashqai delivers improved driving performance due to calmer vehicle body motion and better levels of impact shock. The new Active Return Control claims to allow the steering wheel returns to centre more naturally, bring-
risen over an 18-month period, in line with the cost
THE cost of driving on under-inflated tyres has
of fuel, according to tyre manufacturer Michelin. Michelin claims that tyre pressures have a direct impact on a vehicle’s fuel economy, with underinflation increasing both fuel usage and carbon emissions, whilst also posing serious safety risks to motorists and other road users. Data collected by Michelin over the last 10 years shows that, on average, at least 60% of motorists in the UK drive on under-inflated tyres, and half of those are at dangerously under-inflated levels (more than 8psi). Tests carried out have shown that a tyre which is 20% under-inflated will typically return 20% less Nissan has launched a new Qashqai with some neat design changes and improved safety
mileage before needing to be replaced. This equates
features with a modest price increase
to loss of 8,000km (5,000 miles) on a tyre which offers a potential mileage of 40,000km.
ing claims of improved precision during driving. Nissan also claims significant improvements to noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) performance on the new Qashqai. This Qashqai will be offered with new Nissan Intelligent Mobility technologies such as intelligent emergency braking with pedestrian detection and intelligent park assist, while new rear cross traffic alert and still assist systems have been added while others have been upgraded
with new safety features. This new Qashqai will be available with ProPILOT, Nissan’s autonomous drive technology in 2018. James McCarthy, CEO, Nissan Ireland, said: “With over 50,000 units sold in the last 10 years, the Qashqai has certainly proved its popularity with the Irish public. Now, with these premium enhancements to its design, quality, technology and driving dynamics, we are confident it’s success will grow further.”
As well as increasing fuel bills, Michelin says under-inflation makes a vehicle’s steering less precise, increases stopping distances and leads to a higher risk of aquaplaning. It also reduces a tyre’s endurance capabilities, making it more prone to damage and possible rapid deflation. Michelin advises motorists to check tyre pressures, including the spare, at least every month and before any long journeys.
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GAZETTE
28 BLANCH GAZETTE 24 August 2017
SPORT
FastSport
Yappy birthday Shelbourne
GOLD-EN DAN: DUBLINER Dan Golden won gold at the 17th FINA World Masters Swimming Championships in Budapest when he came home first in the 50m butterfly event in the 65-70 age category. “Masters” is the term given to competitive swimming for anyone over 25 years old and Golden also set a new FINA World Masters Swimming Championship record when he finished in a time of 30.09 seconds to take his much deserved victory. He is a member of the NAC Masters Swimming Club, which has become one of Ireland’s most successful masters swimming clubs since been founded in 1988, and he also competed at the tournament in the 100m butterfly and both the 50m and 100m freestyle -finishing an impressive fifth in both of the latter two. The FINA World Championships take place every two years, with this year’s event running over a twoweek period in Budapest.
SHELBOURNE Park are celebrating 90 years in business - that’s 630 years if you’re a dog. The home of Irish greyhound racing is situated in the docklands of Ringsend and first opened its doors as a dog track in 1927. The historic stadium was also the home of Shelbourne FC from 1913 to 1949, and even hosted a race between a greyhound and former Top Gear presenter Richard Hammond in a Mazda MX5 - and yes the greygound won.
Celebrities and fans alike come together to celebrate 90 years of racing at Shelbourne Park
Dubliners denied three in a row by the Germans JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com
Female MVP of the final Grainne McCarthy of Ireland Picture: Paddy Cummins
THE fourth outing of the Dublin Golden Cup in ultimate frisbee took place earlier this month in Westmanstown, with the German national team winning the tournament, defeating Dublin side Trilogy in the final. The tournament was conceived of by a group of Dublinbased frisbee friends as a way to bring an array of multinational opposition to the city, and is played across two days - pool matches on Saturday, and final
ranking contests on Sunday. Organiser Mark Earley told the Gazette of the finalists “Both teams stood out all weekend long but the Germans played a much stronger final game and won well in the end. The Irish team had won the tournament for the last two years running so were pretty disappointed. Each year the cream of UK Ultimate come over and this year a Scottish team Black Eagles looked exceptional and were unlucky not to make it to the final.” The tournament featured 30 teams and more than 200 play-
ers, and for Earley the organisational aspects were his proudest moments. “To be honest seeing Saturday morning go well was a great feeling,” he explained. “We put on breakfast for them, we organised lunch at the fields and brought merchandise to sell too. We needed lots of things to come through for us, including the weather, and it did, so just seeing it all in full swing was great. We’ve an annual ceili on the Saturday night where we teach the visiting teams a few Irish dances which was both hilarious and fun. And then on
Sunday, seeing everyone watching the final was nice too.” Ultimate frisbee - a fast paced game with similarities to American football in the scoring, but a much more open and fluid gameplay - first came to Ireland in 1995, over thirty years after establishing in the US. Earley who regularly travels to participate himself - says the country “punches well above its weight” with about 500-600 active players. The sport is typically mixed and open to all, and Earley encourages anyone interested to get involved.
24 August 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 29
GAZETTE
FASTSport
Young basketballers end European’s with big win IRELAND Under-16 men’s basketball team have written their own piece of history at the FIBA European Championships by storming home to an 83-78 point win over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the 11-12th place classification game. Four Dubliners were involved in the squad with Malahide’s Cian Daly, Templeogue’s Matthew Harper, Sanmi Fajana from the Ongar Chaser’s, and Liffey Celtic’s Tiernan Howe all taking part. In what has already been a superb summer for Irish international basketball, the under-16 men continued the trend by securing a massive 11th place finish. Ireland not only finished their Europeans campaign in style, but did so over a team who – just five days previously – beat them in the group stages 71-97. An even first quarter saw the teams trading baskets, with Fajana, David Lehane and Howe the stand out shooters - helping to send Ireland into a 21-18 point lead at the end of the first. A superb second quarter from Daly, which saw him get in some vital assists and steals, served to enhance an already strong defensive display from the boys in green. Fajana continued to clock the scores for the Irish, and they held a five-point lead at the break, 40-35. The third quarter is where things got a little shaky for Ireland as Bosnia & Herzegovina hustled to close the gap and managed to take their first lead in the game. Ireland regrouped quickly though, with Paul Kelly leading the charge with a perfectly placed pace to Oisin Rice who hit the long three, and Ireland were back in control by the buzzer. It certainly wasn’t over though, and the final quarter was a battle of will and determination. Strong defence kept Ireland on top, and Nathan Moore showed his cool head from the free throw line to send Ireland home to a memorable and historic victory, 83-78. “It was what we thought it would be, last game, last day, let’s find out what we have left in the tank,” said Head Coach Pat Price after the game. “We reminded the team in the third quarter, that we needed to want this more than Bosnia. A lot of the team made a couple of great plays and did a lot of defensive stops at critical times, so I’m very proud of them and proud that they could rally after such a tough game last night. They said they wanted to end this thing in the right way and they really did that.”
Canadian dream still flying high for teen star Dublin ice hockey ace looking to pick up sponsors in bid to keep alive his ambitious hopes of playing professionally by spending the next 12 months in the GreatWhite North sport@dublingazette.com
BLANCHARDSTOWN teenager Mark Murphy is all set to take a brave gamble, in a bid to make an impact on the ice hockey world. It’s an unlikely move for a Dublin native: our city doesn’t have a permanent ice skating rink, and Murphy’s side the Flying Ducks only play on ice around ten times a year as they have to travel to Belfast to do so. The plans, however, are not as pie-in-the-sky as they may sound. Murphy has already spent six weeks in Canada, where he played for a side in French-speaking Mon-
treal. Living with a host family and picking up the language as he went along, the 16-year-old turned out for Somang Hockey Club. He trained daily, and his improvement during those six weeks was so substantial that the club sought him out earlier this year to try and persuade him to return. Murphy decided to do so, for an entire year. Murphy’s start in the game was somewhat coincidental. “There used to be a Castleknock ice hockey rink, six years ago, and my sister was figure skating in the morning. They happened to be training, and my mum suggested I join in. I never
Mark Murphy posing in his Flying Ducks gear
looked back,” he recalls. “You learn how to skate, which was kind of natural to me as I used to rollerblade, and then it came fairly naturally. I just love it. They kept the Castleknock rink open through the hottest summer we’ve had in years, in a warehouse in 2010 but the planning permission wasn’t renewed, and they’ve built houses there. It was difficult to even get ice time.” “There are teams around the country, but we usually play them on roller hockey rinks. It’s not the same sport, really. We play with a puck with balls on it so it has less friction. I don’t really like
it in the same way.” “There’s just about an Irish national team, as well as age groups,” he continues. “For the Canadians, playing us is a bit like playing children. There’s just no comparison. My aim is probably to coach in the long term.” There’s an air of modesty in this ambition, however: Murphy’s Canadian side Somang have players from within the team who will shortly take up professional contracts. Murphy’s team, the Flying Ducks, have done a lot to progress the Irish situation for their players, however. Their connection with Canadian teams, for example - they visited for St Patrick’s Day last year - has enabled them to acquire shared equipment, which they then rent to players on an annual basis. That means the bar to entry - the cost of essential equipment - is only a fraction of what it would otherwise be. The sport is huge over there. “There’s a stadium every 15 minute drive, and each would have two ice rinks at it,” Murphy said of his six-week Canadian experience. “It was like playing a different sport. They’re all really good players, who know how to position themselves. As soon as I came back, I went straight into our senior team, I felt like a totally different player.” “The physical side was tough, but I loved it. You have to get used to be pushed around. You’re
allowed to hit with the shoulder, within certain rules, like how far you are from the boards. I can watch a bit of it here, but I have to do it at mad o’clock in the morning.” The stumbling block for Murphy and his family is an obvious one: with a year in Canada costing tens of thousands of dollars. “We’re hoping we can find some sponsorship,” Murphy’s mum Debbie Hendy Murphy explains. “It’s such a good opportunity that we have to make sure Mark takes it. The difference with sponsorship might be whether Mark is in school, which is an extra cost. There’s no funding there at the moment for the sport at all in Ireland. We’d certainly be interested in making an arrangement with any company interested in supporting Mark.” As for ice hockey in Ireland? “It’s a great business opportunity,” Murphy explains. “If someone came in with some money and set up a rink, it would never look back. The demand is clearly there, and I don’t think it would take too long to hook up with the elite league in England.” Should that happen, it will be too late for earlyadopters like Murphy. Instead, he’ll be leaving behind the conventional school route - at least temporarily - in September, with big ambitions: to try and make things stick in Montreal.
GAZETTE
30 BLANCH GAZETTE 24 August 2017
SPORT
FASTSport
SOCCER: DUBLIN 15 OUTFIT START TITLE DEFENCE WITH IMPORTANT WIN
Blanch mums take to the pitch in a bid to keep fit MOTHERS from the Dublin 15 area have taking it upon themselves to stay healthy by joining up to the Ladies Gaelic Association’s Gaelic4Mothers&Others initiative. It has proved an innovative way to introduce mothers and other women to adies football. The initiative sees women playing ladies football in a fun, non-competitive and social environment, while also providing an opportunity for women to get their recommended weekly exercise in a fun way. Being a mother is not a necessity to take part but participants must be 21 or over and not currently playing competitively with a club team. There are currently over 200 clubs with G4M&O teams, with a number of them present in the Dublin 15 area, such as; Erin go Bragh, St Brigids and St. Peregrines. The Erin go Bragh G4M&O was set up in December 2014 and has grown in popularity since then with 24 women signed up to the programme. They train two nights a week from 8pm – 9pm at the Hunters Run pitches. Members involved range in age from their 20’s up to their 50’s and some have played gaelic football previously, but most have not so it caters for all ages and all levels. They play matches on average every second week, which are non-competitive and just there to help keep the team active. Matches are usually 20 minutes a side and there is no limit on the number of subs used in a game. The size of the team depends on how many players are available to play for any particular game and there is no minimum number but 15 is the maximum allowed. Blitzes are held throughout the year, either by individual clubs who host, or the LGFA who organise provincial and national blitzes where the emphasis is on fun whilst doing a little bit of exercise. These blitzes create great opportunities for networking between clubs and are well received by the G4M&O players. If you would like to get involved you are very welcome to try it out for a week or two before you will have to make a decision whether to join the programme or not. Interested participants can join training to give it a go, or alternatively if you want any further information you can contact Ciara Farrell on 087 9147154.
St Mochtas captain Craig Sheridan lifts last season’s LSL Sunday Senior Division trophy
Saints see off Malahide sport@dublingazette.com
ST MOCHTA’S made a powerful opening to their Leinster Sunday Senior League title defence on Friday night, as the Clonsilla side swatted aside a decent looking Malahide United side by taking early control in an eventful game. Saints’ title win last time around could hardly have been more dramatic as three sides went into the final day with a shot at the title. However, their away day hammering of Wayside Celtic was enough to overcome a goal difference deficit despite traditional big boys Bluebell
United edging past closest rivals Crumlin United. This year looks set to be still more competitive, with Bluebell strengthened by former Ireland international Keith Fahey [still only 34] moving over to their playing roster, Crumlin adding to their attacking options and even traditional strugglers Greystones United adding a host of former League of Ireland stars. If Mochta’s were intimidated, though, they didn’t show it. In fact, their two early goals were both worthy of a division higher than Ireland’s third tier. First, Dean Kelly slammed a 25-yard
HANDBALL Kennedy reaches another final after tough battle ST Brigid’s man Eoin Kennedy reached the
final of the 60x30 men’s senior singles after surviving a scar from Meath’s Brian Carroll. Kennedy, pictured on the right in photgraph, fell 13-3 behind in the first game but the nine-time champion fought back to level at 14-14. Scores then went back and forth before Kennedy finally won 21-18. The second game was even closer with Kennedy squeezing past his opponent 21-20. Kennedy will now play Robbie McCarthy, pictured, in the final on September 2nd.
free kick into the corner of the Malahide net on five minutes, before the champions doubled their tally with a breathtaking 35-yard volley from David Somers eight minutes later. Mochta’s were proving ruthless but Malahide found a brief period of dominance between the two goals, to pull one back through David Craven, who finished firmly into the corner to bring the north Dubs back into the contest at 2-1. That brought on a period of sustained Malahide pressure, with Adam Kmet in the Mochta’s goal twice forced into sharp
saves as Craven attempted to get onto the end of direct balls swung in the direction of the penalty box. That continued into the second half and Malahide arguably should have been level, as former Shamrock Rovers man Gavin Kearney was forced into a late block inside the six yard area, and two Malahide chances on the hour were nudged wide of the target when perhaps it was easier to score. From there, though, Malahide faded and the champions took control. Alan McGreal chipped in with another fantastic
volleyed finish, and while Craven was to respond in kind almost immediately to make it 3-2 on 80 minutes, the equaliser never quite looked on the cards. It was McGreal - a key man last time around for Mochta’s - who finally put the game beyond doubt with a 90th minute strike from close range to give the champions a great start to the season with a 4-2 win. While it’s still extremely early days, news of St Patrick’s CYFC’s surprising 2-1 win over ten man Bluebell United would also be welcome in Clonsilla as Mochta’s look like no flash in the pan.
24 August 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 31
GAZETTE
UNIVERSITY GAMES
CLUB NOTICEBOARD
Swim star narrowly misses out on medal
ST BRIGID’S
SHANE Ryan came agonisingly close to a medal at the World University Games as he finished fourth in the final of the 100m backstroke in Taipei. He finished in a time of 54.35s, just 0.18s shy of the bronze. Originally from America, the Rio 2016 Olympian qualifies for Ireland through his father and moved across the Atlantic two years ago to pursue his dream of competing in the Olympics.
CONGRATULATIONS to Eoin Kennedy who
ject and it is a vital forum because the
won an epic 60x30 Mens Senior Singles
club wants to develop and support our
Semi-final on Saturday 19th. Eoin came
coaches. If you are coaching at any age
from behind in the first set, and was
be sure to attend.
tested by Meath’s Brian Carroll before
Our club gala dinner for 2017 will take
prevailing on a 21-18, 21-20 score line.
place in the Hogan Suite of Croke Park on
Eoin will meet Robbie McCarthy in the
October 14th. A brilliant club night is in
final on 2nd September in the Croke Park
store for all!
Handball Centre.
CAMOGIE: CATS END FINAL DREAM FOR THE DUBS
St Brigids 5k is set for 17th Septem-
Junior A Hurlers had a great quarter-
ber at 10am, it takes place on All-Ireland
final win on 19th August and play Erins
football Sunday. Individual or “Team of 4”
Isle in the semi-final in a week’s time.
entry is possible, hoping for a huge club
Make sure to support the lads.
occasion. T-Shirts and Goody Bags for
On Saturday 26th there are two adult
early entrants.
league home matches at 6.30pm. AFL3
Nursery resumes on Saturday 2nd
play Ballyboden and AFL4 play Clanna
September 9.30 to 11.00 am with all four
Gael.
to seven year olds welcome.
There is a club coaches night on 1st September as part of the 2020 pro-
Club Lotto is taking a summer break, with the next Draw on 7th September.
CASTLEKNOCK OUR nursery with thanks to Tigers
Well done to the Division 2 adult hurl-
na nOg/Somerton/CCC. New members
ers who beat Naomh Barrog in their
are always welcome, and you can send
league 3-12 to 2-19.
your nursery enquiries to lisakiernan1@ gmail.com. There was no winner of our lotto jackpot in association with Rialto Ford. The
Two Dublin players comfort each other after loss to Kilkenny . Picture: Bryan Keane/INPHO
Kilkenny prove too strong for Jackeens ALL-IRELAND SEMI FINAL Dublin 0-09 Kilkenny 2-11 sport@dublingazette.com
DUBLIN’S 31 year wait to reach another All-Ireland senior camogie final continues after they lost 0-9 to 2-11 to Kilkenny at the Gaelic Grounds. The final margin is harsh on Dublin, who were appearing in their first semi-final in 27 years, but they showed enough to confirm that they will be a force to be reckoned with in the coming seasons. Kilkenny got off to the perfect start when they
broke out of defence and worked the sliotar to Miriam Walsh, who was hauled down by Áine Woods for a penalty. Denise Gaule stepped up to the plate and planted a shot to the right corner of the net with only two minutes elapsed. The threatening Siobhán Kehoe then got Dublin off the mark. That was the start of a run of four points for the Metropolitans out of the next five scored. A strong run by Anna Farrell created a goal chance for Walsh but she was dispossessed by Eve O’Brien, who was
magnificent throughout for the Sky Blues, as was Miriam Twomey. Ann Dalton was particularly influential as Kilkenny began to get their running game in motion, and the Stripeywomen scored the last three points of the half to lead by 1-5 to 0-4 at half time. Dublin were playing into the wind in the second half but they halved the deficit inside six minutes with a point from Kehoe. K i l ke n ny a r e a n extremely experienced outfit however and while being put to the pin of
their collars by Dublin’s ferocious workrate, they had enough experience and scoring threat to put some breathing space between the teams with five of the next six points. It was still a three-point game entering the final quarter when Maher replied to a Danielle Morrissey brace but points from Julieann Malone, Anna Farrell, Michelle Quilty and a wonderful effort by Meighan Farrell saw them pull clear. Maher shot two more points to bring her tally to six but Clifford had the last say with her rocket of a finish.
week’s club camp another huge success.
Childcare returns this Saturday at Tir
Best of luck to our second Ladies adult footballers in their championship semifinal away to Garristown on Wednesday, all support welcome.
numbers drawn 7, 8, 9, 15 and there was
Please sign up to Topaz “Play or Park”
20 ‘match 3’ winners receiving €15. Next
online or at a Topaz garage and pick
draw 24th August in Myo’s with a jack-
Castleknock Hurling & Football club as
pot of €6,000. Lucky dip winner was Anna
your club. Scan your loyalty card when
Farrell winning €30.
you buy fuel in Topaz and the club could
Very well done to all participants, coaches and organisers who made last
be entered into a cash draw with up to €200,000 up for grabs.
NAOMH PEREGRINE CONGRATULATIONS to our Junior D Hurl-
tournament next weekend in County
ers who beat Plunketts in their relega-
Waterford.
tion championship playoff on Sunday
Big game this coming week with St.
away from home. The lads started very
Peregrines V Cuala CMP in the Division 3
brightly and were up 1-4 to 3 points with-
camogie final on Thursday 24th August
in 15 minutes with a goal scored by Luke
with at 7pm. Get out and show your sup-
O’Grady.
port!!
Best of luck to Adam O’Connor and the
No winner of this week’s lotto. Num-
Dublin Under-14 Hurlers who are taking
bers drawn: 13, 14, 15 & 17. Next week’s
part in the Tony Forristal/Sonny Walsh
jackpot will be €7200.
ERIN GO BRAGH
THERE was no winner of our lotto jackpot worth €10,000. Numbers drawn were 5,15,20 and 28.
a brilliant success. Eight of our members are brave enough to jump 10,000 feet to raise
Our golf classic takes place in Hol-
money for our club on Sat 9th Sept. All
lystown Golf Club. A team of four costs
sponsorship will be greatly appreciated.
300 euro or 75 each including meal. The
Well done to our G4M&O who had
success of this golf classic is vital for the
a tough battle against Donabate on
survival of our club so we need as many
Thursday night in awful weather but
members and friends to support us. It
managed to come out victorious.
is open to both ladies and gents and is always guaranteed to be a great day.
Hard luck to our Under-15 footballers who just lost out to Skerries Harps.
Another successful summer camp
Well done to Moses Muchemi who was
finished. Thanks to all the wonderful kids
part of the new Guinness video “Behind
who took apart you were amazing and
every great town, the life and soul of the
you’re a credit to your parents and the
GAA”. He represents our club with pride
club. Thanks to all our fantastic coaches
and it was a great honour for our club to
and mentors who helped to make it such
represent Leinster.
32 BLANCH GAZETTE 24 August 2017